Thiruvananthapuram: Banana chips and the delicious payasams which are unavoidable components in the festive season of Onam will burn one’s pocket this year since their prices have shot up amid the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Various organisations, which used to operate Onam stalls, said they had no other option but to increase the rates of banana chips, payasams and other items following the implementation of GST. The cost for a litre of payasam had gone up by nearly₹40 compared to last year owing to the new tax regime whereas the price of banana chips has shot up to ₹350 a kilo.

Despite the increase in prices, the demand for banana chips and payasams continues to rise this festival season. Shop owners pointed out that there is a steady demand for both the items. People are not ready to avoid banana chips and payasam from their wish list for Onam.

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